A new program will mark the 30th anniversary of Forest Park Forever this year – the Artist in Residence Program. The program is designed to “celebrate the anniversary through the creative output of talented artists” chosen to “explore the beauty and inspiring nature of Forest Park and share their new work with the community through public programming.”

Forest Park Forever recently announced the first artists selected for the new program, including WORK/PLAY, The 442s and Madeline Marak. The chosen artists will work in Forest Park to create new artwork using the Park as inspiration and engage with the community by leading free programs.

WORK/PLAY: The group will be the first in the program and is currently in their residency. They are “working with the Forest Park Forever team to collect discarded botanicals that will be repurposed to create natural dyes, and ultimately, a new textile.”

442s: The musical group will follow in June. They “will create a new musical composition with the help of a donated piano, willing park visitors and participants.”

Madeline Marak: The artist will start her project in September. She “will draw attention to a tucked-away corner of the park through the temporary installation of simple metal frames placed by the public.”

One of the reasons St. Louis has a park rated first in the nation: Forest Park Forever. I do like Central Park in New York City, but Forest Park covers more territory and contains so many more attractions. And, I am excited that the Fair St. Louis will be back in the park again. I loved walking to the fair with my U. City friends last summer and seeing Blondie. The tide was high…